By 1812Blockhouse
The Richland Area Chamber & Economic Development is excited to unveil the Young Leaders Institute for the upcoming 2024-2025 school year, offering a unique and transformative experience for high school sophomores across Richland County. This initiative is designed to cultivate future leaders by immersing students in their community, fostering engagement, and building essential leadership skills that will serve them well in their future careers.
Who Can Apply?
The Young Leaders Institute is open to all current high school sophomores enrolled in any public school, private school, or homeschool within Richland County. This program seeks students who are eager to learn, grow, and make a meaningful impact on their community.
What Participants Will Experience
The Young Leaders Institute offers a hands-on, immersive experience that allows students to explore various facets of Richland County, including its businesses, healthcare systems, local governments, and cultural attractions. Participants will engage in a nonprofit service project, contributing directly to the community while gaining invaluable insights into civic responsibility and social impact.
Students will also have the opportunity to develop leadership skills through structured activities and workshops, preparing them for future roles in their communities and careers. The program emphasizes career pathways, helping students identify and explore potential fields of interest while connecting them with local professionals and leaders.
A Legacy of Impact
Past participants have praised the program for its ability to foster growth and build community connections. Payne Schwartz, a student from Ontario High School who completed the program last year, reflected on his experience, saying, “I loved the opportunity to be a part of this program. It allowed me to foster growth opportunities in my leadership skills while allowing me to understand my community better.”
This sentiment echoes the program’s overarching goal: to empower students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to become the next generation of leaders in Richland County and beyond.
Program Structure and Schedule
The Young Leaders Institute will take place on the first Wednesdays of October, November, December, February, March, and May, running from 9:15 AM to 1:30 PM. This schedule allows students to participate without conflicting with their regular school commitments, providing a seamless integration of the program into their academic lives.
No Cost to Participate
Thanks to the generous support of the Richland County Youth and Family Council and various corporate sponsors, the Young Leaders Institute is offered at no cost to students. This ensures that all eligible sophomores have the opportunity to participate, regardless of financial background.
How to Apply
Interested students should act quickly, as the application deadline is September 13. To learn more about the program and submit an application, students and parents can visit the Richland Area Chamber & Economic Development website at Young Leaders Institute Application.
Final Thoughts
The Young Leaders Institute represents a remarkable opportunity for Richland County sophomores to grow as individuals, develop leadership skills, and make a tangible difference in their community. By participating in this program, students will not only gain a deeper understanding of their local environment but also build a foundation for future success in any career they choose to pursue.
Don’t miss this chance to be a part of something special. Apply today and take the first step toward becoming one of Richland County’s future leaders.
Source: Richland Area Chamber and Economic Development; Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay
